Union Pacific upgrading Kansas infrastructure

Union Pacific plans to strengthen Kansas' transportation infrastructure by investing $19 million in the rail line between Salina and an area near Oakley.

The project, funded entirely by Union Pacific, began April 11 and is scheduled to be completed by the end of July.

The railroad will replace 133,700 ties, install more than 63,700 tons of ballast and replace more than one-quarter mile of rail in various curves. In addition, crews will renew the surfaces at 174 grade crossings.

"Union Pacific helps link businesses with consumers, suppliers and markets across the nation and around the world," said Donna Kush, Union Pacific vice president public affairs, Northern Region. "In addition to helping move customers' goods more safely and efficiently, our investments support communities by reducing traffic congestion, facilitating industrial development and promoting economic expansion."